best dog food for pitbulls with skin allergies reddit
Best Dog Foods for Allergies
Farmers Pork is one of 3 fresh recipes included in our review of the The Farmers Dog product line.
The Farmers Dog pork recipe gets the bulk of its animal protein from fresh pork. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
A top pick. Enthusiastically recommended.
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Read our review of the full The Farmers Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including large breed puppies Pork Potluck is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes studied in our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line.
Nom Nom Pork Potluck derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh ground pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
If youve ever wished you could feed your dog a fresh, home-cooked meal but you didnt know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
The first time you visit Nom Noms website, youll answer a few questions about your dogs age, weight, breed and suspected allergies. Nom Nom will then create a customized, single protein diet designed to keep your dog at optimal weight.
Expertly designed by Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN).
An excellent limited ingredient recipe and a solid place to start an at-home elimination diet. Enthusiastically recommended.
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For More Choices: See our Best Fresh-Cooked Dog Food page
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For Adults + puppies (including large breeds) Turkey and Potato Formula is one of 6 recipes included in our review of the Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient dry product line.
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 14% fat and 49% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
An excellent limited ingredient option for adult dogs with food and skin sensitivities. Easily recommended.
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Read our review of the full Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
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Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Turkey Patties is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw Turkey Patties derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
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Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe is one of 10 formulas included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure dry product line.
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato gets the majority of its meat protein from fresh salmon, as well as salmon and menhaden fish meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A high-quality recipe ideal for adult dogs.
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Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Angus Beef Recipe is one of 3 dry formulas included in our review of the Taste of the Wild Prey Limited Ingredient product line.
Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef receives most of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Highly recommended.
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Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Prey Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, lentils, tomato pomace, chicken fat, natural flavor Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + puppies Chicken Flavor is one of 2 recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Dog Food dry product line.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor gets most of its protein from hydrolyzed soy protein isolate. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 20% protein, 11% fat and 61% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
An exceptional selection for sensitive dogs. Highly recommended.
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Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Corn starch, hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, partially hydrogenated canola oil preserved with TBHQ, coconut oil, powdered cellulose Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 20% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Real Turkey and Brown Rice is one of 4 wet recipes included in our review of the Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet wet product line.
This Merrick Limited Ingredient formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh deboned turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 27% fat and 28% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
A balanced, wet alternative to dry kibble. A practical option for those seeking to pin down a possible offending ingredient. Plus its available in 4 other featured proteins. Highly recommended.
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Read our review of the full Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, brown rice, oatmeal Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal) Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP is one of 4 recipes included in our review of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein dry product line.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein draws the bulk of its protein from hydrolyzed soy protein. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 21% protein, 19% fat and 52% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 89%.
A solid all life stages option for dogs with allergies.
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Read our review of the full Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Brewers rice, hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp Type Grain-inclusive (brewers rice) Protein Percentage 21% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + small or medium breed puppies Z/D is one of 2 dry recipes included in our review of the Hills Prescription Skin Food Sensitivities product line.
This product gets the majority of its animal protein from chicken liver. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 19% protein, 14% fat and 59% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
Hills Z/D is made with hydrolyzed protein derived from chicken to help avoid adverse food reactions and promote healthy skin.
A time-proven, hypoallergenic formula thats been recommended by veterinary professionals nationwide for years. Ideal for dogs diagnosed with food and skin allergies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Hills Prescription Diet Z/D Canine Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Corn starch, hydrolyzed chicken liver, powdered cellulose, soybean oil, calcium carbonate Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 19% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only, including seniors (not for puppies) This Salmon and Brown Rice Formula is one of 26 recipes included in our review of the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets dry product line.
This Natural Balance Limited Ingredient formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh salmon and fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 17% fat and 49% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 26 available recipes
Read our review of the full Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets High Protein Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, menhaden fish meal, brown rice, brewers rice, rice bran Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, brewers rice) Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sensitive Skin Salmon and Rice is one of 19 recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan dry product line.
This Purina Pro Plan formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
We also note the inclusion of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids from sunflower and fish oils designed to help support dry, itchy skin.
An exceptional over-the-counter, non-prescription dog food that may provide symptomatic relief from chronic skin allergies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, barley, rice, oat meal, canola meal Type Includes grain (barley, rice, oat meal) Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Zignature Turkey is one of 13 wet dog food recipes included in our review of the Zignature canned product line.
Zignature Salmon extracts the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 23% fat and 17% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
An exceptional, simple ingredient formula. Recommended with confidence.
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Read our review of the full Zignature Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, peas, turkey meal Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 52% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All adults + puppies 15. Zignature Dog Food Review (Canned)
The Best Dog Food for Pitbulls with Skin Allergies
Skin problems can get in the way of a hearty meal. No matter how nutritious your choice of dog food is, your Pittys allergies should always be factored in. The best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies is the best pick here. Aside from ensuring that your doggo gets the right nutrition, this food will also prevent the onset of irritations.
Pitbulls are prone to various allergies, especially those associated with their skin. Their thin coat is one reason why they are susceptible to irritations aside from other internal factors.
The type of food you serve for your Pitbull is crucial in dodging skin allergies. Some doggos tend to develop skin irritations due to various food ingredients. So before you purchase another bag of kibble, heres what you need to know:
Why Pitbulls are prone to skin allergies
Since these burly doggos are short-haired, they have a lower defense against allergens. They are also common victims of dermatological problems. Some of the typical culprits are mundane substances like pollen, sunlight, grass, and skin parasites.
Most of the allergens are environment-related. However, the detergent you use in washing the dog bedding or the Pitty shampoo can be allergens too. Contact allergy is common among Pitbulls but this can worsen when combined with other irritants.
As you see, dog allergy is a very diverse topic. One substance can be an allergen to a specific dog but not for the other. This means your pet needs customized attention when it comes to grooming, and most of all, their diet.
If your doggo is starting to scratch and developing hotspots, its time to take him to the vet for a check-up.
Take note, though, that theres a fine line between allergies and intolerances. Allergies occur when your dogs immune system mistakenly identifies a certain substance as a hazard. Meanwhile, intolerance is all in the gut. When your dog cant digest a certain substance, its not right to tag it as an allergy.
The best diet for Pitbull with allergies
The Association of American Feed Control Officials(AFFCO) recommends that you feed an adult dog with 18% protein. For puppies, protein consistency should be higher at 22%. However, addressing skin allergy isnt just about having the skin allergy food for Pitbulls with high protein levels. There are more aspects to consider in order to prevent the condition from getting in the way of your dogs life.
Some protein sources can be allergens for Pitbulls. Some doggos could be allergic to beef, fish, lamb, pork, or dairy. Theres no single ingredient that can be considered as allergens unless your Pittys body reacts negatively to it.
For example, your Pitbull could be allergic to salmon but mine isnt. Still, it doesnt mean salmon is something I should avoid.
One way to know what is best and what isnt for your Pitty is to put him on the food for a few weeks. If the pooch starts exhibiting symptoms of allergy, thats the time you should analyze the situation. What are the main ingredients of the food? Which of those are the possible allergens? Once you have an idea, go to the vet and request a patch test for confirmation.
If you dont want to subject your doggo to this experiment, secure discharge samples from the Pittys eyes, ears, or mouth. Send this to the vet for further examination. Through that, you can determine what you should avoid in order to establish what the best diet for your Pitbull is.
Usually, the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies has these three attributes:
-Limited ingredients
-Prescribed or formulated by veterinarians
-Novel ingredients
Food ingredients to be cautious about
Again, there is no written list of food ingredients that can be harmful to your dog. But, in general, there are some items that tend to induce irritations. So instead of avoiding, its best to proceed with caution with the following ingredients:
Grains
Grains like soy, wheat, and corn has earned bad rap for pissing the stomach of Pitbulls. As much as your Pitty needs sources of carbs, take note that grains take time to digest. These three mentioned items are notorious for inducing or worsening skin allergies among dogs.
Instead, opt for brown rice, barley, or oatmeal as a source of carbohydrates.
Dairy products
If theres one food item infamous for allergies, it would be dairy products. Its the same case with dogs and humans. Although cheese, egg, and the likes are rich in complete protein, always proceed with caution. It contains enzymes that can be allergens for your pet. Anyway, it doesnt mean youre going to ditch dairy for good. If possible, keep it in a low amount.
These two food ingredients are the usual allergens reported by many Pitbull owners. Still, it will vary depending on your dogs immune system.
Best skin allergy food for Pitbulls
If youre planning to purchase your Pitty with skin allergies its new dog food, I suggest that you take a look on these premium picks I got here:
BLUE Wilderness Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
For adult Pitties, I recommend that you consider the BLUE Wilderness Dry Dog Food. First, its guaranteed to be grain-free and to have very minimal dairy ingredients. This is made from deboned chicken and fish for the most sumptuous meal you can give your Pitbull.
Above all, this food doesnt have any poultry by-products, corn, wheat, and soy that can induce or worsen dog allergies.
This food also has potatoes and peas as safe sources of carbohydrates. Aside from that, this dry dog food is also blended with wholesome veggies and fruits for optimal nourishment. Since it has the right balance of Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, this is perfect in regaining the health of your pets skin and coat.
Another good thing about this food is it has 34% crude protein, perfect for active adult Pitbulls. Its also packed with antioxidants and minerals that help strengthen the doggos immune system. All the minerals and nutrients here are selected by nutritionists and veterinarians.
Whats interesting about this dog food is its two-part structure. Aside from kibble, it also contains the so-called LifeSource Bits. Its a dark brown bit packed with nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants all intended to support overall health. And in the case of Pitties, its the best skin allergy food for Pitbulls
Pros
Best for gluten-intolerant and allergic dogs
Zero add-ins and artificial preservatives
Free from substandard ingredients like meat by-products
Excellent formulation of nutrients and minerals
Supports the skin, bone, and muscle health
Cons
Only available in a maximum of 24-pound bags
A bit expensive than most
Hills Science Dog Food for Sensitive Skin and Stomach
For those looking for a special formula made for doggos with sensitive skin, the one from Hills Science is the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. Its said to be formulated for dogs with the nastiest tummy problems and skin issues. Made for adult Pitties, this meal is a combination of chicken and barley for a dose of protein and carbs.
The best part here is that the food has Vitamin E and C plus clinically-approved antioxidants that help restore the shine of Pitbulls coats. There are also Omega fatty acids that both contribute to a healthier digestion and skin. The premium ingredients here are easy to digest and definitely delicious.
This Hills Pet Dog Food is recommended by vets based on the Veterinarian Endorsement Survey conducted in 2023. Aside from that, this formula is actually the brainchild of about 220 veterinarians, pet nutritionists, and scientists. Its guaranteed to yield positive results in the skin department.
Pet owners who had dogs with extreme skin issues including scaling, hotspots, and yeast growth have resorted to this food. With proper transitioning, this food can help clear the itching and wounds in just one month. Even picky eaters would love the taste and nutritional profile of this skin allergy food for Pitbulls.
Pros
Vet and pet nutritionist-approved
All-natural ingredients packed with antioxidants and nutrients
Infused with Vitamins C and E for better coat health
Safe source of carbohydrates and protein
Best for sensitive tummies and skin
Larger bag
Cons
The pieces are bigger which isnt advisable for Pitties under 10 pounds.
Expensive but worth every penny
Causes of Pitbull skin allergies
A lot of pet owners are puzzled as to why their Pitbulls develop skin allergies. Veterinarians believe that the Pitbull breed has a genetic hypersensitivity to various substances, be it on their food or surroundings. Since their immune system seems jumpy, it tends to identify some substances as threats to the body.
Mostly, vets recognize four of the common allergies Pitbulls experience. It can either be contact, environmental, food, or fleas and ticks allergy. Of all these, the contact and food allergies are the most common among Pitties.
This is the reason why its important to choose the right skin allergy food for Pitbulls. Its best to stick to a formulation with limited ingredients. If ever the allergic reaction lingers, it will be easier for you and the vet to spot the culprit.
Like what I said earlier, any food item can be an allergen depending on how your dogs immune system will react to it. You always have to be meticulous and observant at this point.
When it comes to contact allergy, its wise to check the shampoo and chemicals youre using to wash your dog and their accessories.
How to spot skin allergies
If theres one consolation here, its the fact that the symptoms of allergies among Pitbull are easy to spot. Itching and constant licking are tell-tale signs of skin allergies. If your Pitbull is starting to develop hotspots and wounds, its time to assess their diet with the help of a veterinarian.
Other symptoms will include intense chewing, scratching, and redness on the armpits, face, ears, paws, and other folds of the skin. Some Pitbulls may also experience diarrhea and vomiting as well as itchiness on the rear ends.
To spot which ingredients or items cause the allergy, start the elimination process. Start by changing the bedding and ditching your usual detergent or shampoos. If the condition of your pet didnt improve, the next move is to switch the diet.
Transition him to a food with ingredients he hasnt eaten before. If your buddys condition improved, it means his previous meals are mired with allergens. If the symptoms persist, sent the dog to the vet for proper diagnosis.
The veterinarian will perform patch tests to possible allergens. For hard-to-spot allergens, a blood screening test could be done. Its always best to consult your vet if the condition continues to worsen. You simply cant take chances on your hit-and-miss process, especially if the skin allergy is starting to be life-threatening.
Treatment of Pitbull skin allergies
The treatment of your Pitties skin allergies doesnt stop after you got the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. Its imperative that you work with your veterinarian for a holistic approach. But to alleviate the symptoms while youre at home, I recommend that you practice the following:
Limit the use of sprays and active detergents
Aside from food, another reason why dogs develop allergies is due to the chemicals present in their environment. Start reducing the use of invasive household cleaners and sprays.
Supplement with oils
If your dogs skin appears dry and scaly, your pooch will benefit from the addition of fish oils. This is packed with Omega fatty acids that help restore coat health.
Follow the vets prescription
After consulting with the vet, he or she will likely prescribe antibiotics and other medications to cure the skin condition of your dog. Always stick to the doctors orders. If the irritation lingers, go back to the doctor for another testing.
Always remember that its not just about getting the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. You should also pay attention to other factors that cause or worsens your Pitties skin irritation. From there, you can get rid of the culprit before it compromises your poochs health.
